Bar Italia

Bar Italia is my family’s favorite restaurant! Jessica was so amazing the last time we went. She was very kind and even went out of her way to find out and tell us where their capers are from. I always get the branzino, it is so crispy and buttery, and their pastas are also delicious. We usually get the bread with ricotta and prosciutto on the side. Everything is always a hit with great portion sizes. The restaurant itself has a great design inside and outside. I plan to have my wedding rehearsal dinner here because it is consistently great. I definitely recommend it.

- Megan Fl -

I went to Barr Italia yesterday and had a great experience. I ordered the short rib and it was very good—tender and full of flavor. We also had the bread as an appetizer, which was really good, and the pesto Genovese was excellent as well. The restaurant was very clean, and the atmosphere was pleasant. Stephanie was our server and she was super nice and very attentive, which made the experience even better. I’d definitely come back.

- Cristian Torres -

I recently visited Bar Italia, a new Italian restaurant in Lakewood Ranch, and it was such a great experience! The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, The food was delicious. We started with the calamari appetizer. Since weve moved to Florida... We have not been able to find anywhere that makes this acceptable. Well, today that changed! Best calamari in Florida....and we are tough critics where this is concerned. I tried the chicken parmesan, and it was perfectly cooked — crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with a flavorful vodka sauce. The pasta was clearly homemade. I had the zoodles dinner- zucchini noodles with a dark red sauce (it was good but I like my pasta sauce a little less thick). My husband ordered the veal marsala and he was finished before we even started (which is rare); so he definitely approved. He really enjoyed the Alfredo sauce pasta that accompanied the dinner as a side. The prices were very reasonable, especially for the quality. The portion size of the chicken parmesan dinner was smaller than we anticipated. It’s not overly expensive, making it a great spot for both a casual dinner or a special night out. Our waiter was attentive without being overbearing, which made the experience even better. Drink were average. I ordered a limon cello drink and it was not what I was expecting. My son ordered a paloma and he didn't love that either. I was so full, but I managed to order a tiramisu to go. Overall, Bella Tavola is a fantastic addition to the area. If you’re looking for authentic Italian food with great service and average prices, I highly recommend giving it a try. I’ll definitely be back soon! 11/29/25 we went back and unfortunately had a bit of a different experience. The arancini came out hot on the outside and cold on the inside. The sauce for zoodles was also soooo thick..... Too thick. The peach sangria had good flavor but very watered down.

- Tina M. -